Canaries Blow 9th Inning Lead In Fargo

Fargo, ND

The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks scored two runs in the ninth inning to complete a comeback and defeat the Sioux Falls Canaries, 5-4, in their home opener Monday, May 26, at Newman Outdoor Field in front of 4, 526 fans.

The ‘Hawks managed to score a run in the bottom of the eighth to cut the Canaries’ lead to 4-3 with the game heading into the ninth. The Canaries were not able to add any more runs and the RedHawks saw the opportunity in the bottom of the ninth to rally.

With two outs, Zach Penprase singled and Sawyer Carroll kept things alive with another hard hit single to put two runners on. After a tough battle in the box, Ronnie Bourquin found a gap in right field, scoring Zach Penprase to tie the game. The nail in the coffin for the Sioux Falls Canaries came through the error by shortstop Stephen Branca, allowing Carroll to score and allow the RedHawks to walk off with the win.

Clutch hitting in the ninth was provided thanks in part to a solid effort from the bullpen by Fargo-Moorhead pitcher Drew Bowlin. He pitched four scoreless innings allowing only two hits with two strikeouts.

Kevin Fuqua earned the win after pitching a scoreless ninth for the RedHawks, while Alan DeRatt took the loss after blowing the save opportunity for the Canaries.

Sioux Falls was able to strike first in the game, putting up one run in the top of the second, however, Fargo-Moorhead quickly answered with two in the bottom half. The top of the fourth saw some more action from the Canaries’ bats, putting up a three-spot, which were unanswered by the RedHawks, mainly due to the effectiveness of Sioux Falls starter Ben Moore. He pitched seven innings and gave up two earned runs on seven hits with seven strikeouts.

Penprase and Bourquin each had three hits to lead the RedHawks at the plate. Tim Alberts had two hits and led the club with two RBIs.

The RedHawks and Canaries continue their three-game series with an 11 a.m. game set for Tuesday, May 27, at Newman Outdoor Field.